The Safeguarding and Revitalization of Lithuanian Cross Crafting and Its Symbolism: Phase I of the Action Plan

Overview:

Cross-crafting in Lithuania includes making crosses and altars and performing the rituals consecrating those crosses. Placed on roadsides at village entrances, near monuments and in cemeteries, and linked to Catholic ceremonies and harvest celebrations, crosses are a symbol of the unity of the community.

Under this project, both cross crafting practitioners and data collectors were trained with the help of experts from the Lithuanian Folk Culture Centre. Furthermore, the National Centre for the Safeguarding and Revitalization of Cross Crafting Traditions, established under the project, has provided work facilities for young craftsmen as well as training in traditional techniques, while introducing them to the symbolism and function of Lithuanian crosses in the past and present.

The project contributed to the development and reinforcement of research networks, facilitated coordination among relevant institutions and practitioners, and increased awareness among Lithuanians of the significance of cross crafting and its associated symbolism.